Martin Kelly admits Raheem Sterling is a real nuisance to mark in training — and predicts a bright future for the winger as long as he continues to work hard at his game.

Sterling has been one of the standout performers for the U-18s and reserves for the last two seasons and earned a first-team debut as a substitute against Wigan last term.

The first real glimpse of his potential for the senior side came in Sunday’s friendly against Bayer Leverkusen, where he rounded two defenders before curling a beautiful strike into the bottom corner.

Manager Brendan Rodgers was keen to stress after the game that Sterling still had ‘an awful lot to learn’ — but Kelly is a fan.

“He’s a nuisance to mark in training and he showed everyone [on Sunday] what he is capable of,” said the defender.

“I wouldn’t like to mark him. He’s fantastic and he helps us as full-backs improve our game because he is a modern day winger.

“He’s doing well in the first team at the moment and I think opportunities will come his way. If he keeps working hard and keeps his feet on the ground he will get that opportunity.”

Meanwhile, Kelly has spoken of his excitement at the start of a new season — especially in light of the type of football Rodgers is asking the team to play.

“We have a good break at the end of each season and even when you have your down time with your family and stuff you are still thinking about football and when it’s time to get back to it,” said the 22-year-old.

“That’s our lives, it’s what we love and we are looking forward to the start of the season as much as the fans are.

“Anyone who saw our game at Anfield the other night or seen us in training will see that we are really sharp at the minute.

“I thought some of the football we played against Gomel in the UEFA Europa League was fantastic and hopefully we will put on some great performances for the fans here.”